Sony to include one-time use “PSN Pass” code in its games

Sony's own games will soon include one-time use codes that must be activated …

Third-party developers have been including one-time use codes in games for a while now, and Sony is joining them with its "PSN Pass" system. First-party games will include a code that you must enter to unlock online play. If you buy a secondhand copy of the game and the code has been used, you'll have to pay up in order to play online.

"We are always evaluating new programs for our online offering, and starting with Resistance 3 this September, we will be instituting a network pass program for PS3 games with online capabilities," Sony said in a statement. "This program will be game-specific. Games that are a part of this program will include a single-use registration code that grants the account holder redeeming the code full online access for that title. This is an important initiative as it allows us to accelerate our commitment to enhancing premium online services across our first party game portfolio."

This isn't new ground for Sony, as the company tried something similar with SOCOM 4 by offering primary buyers new weapons and content down the line. Second-hand buyers had to pay $15 for the privilege of accessing this content. This is a practice that's become almost expected and, with Sony not charging for PlayStation Network access, it's an easy way to monetize the service.